How to Combat the Mental Health Stigma In the Workplace
Do you hold back telling others that you struggle with stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns because you are afraid they will think negatively of you?
And, do you specifically hold back from sharing your concerns with your managers or co-workers because you are afraid it will negatively impact your job, career or relationships?
Yeah, this is a real thing, and it’s called a “mental health stigma”.
Unfortunately, there is a double standard in our society when it comes to mental health. If you break your leg, have diabetes or high blood pressure, you go to the doctor to get help. But, if you have anxiety or other mental health disorders, you may be judged or called “crazy” because of the negative attitudes and beliefs people have toward mental illness. Although more people are accepting of mental health issues, and more companies are bringing mental health discussions to the table, the stigma associated with it continues to be a problem.
A “stigma” is the negative view that people project onto other people who basically share that they have problems and aren’t perfect. It’s the process of devaluing someone based on a characteristic that usually the person has no control over and is made to feel ashamed of.
In the workplace, team members might believe those with depression or anxiety are weak and that their lack of productivity, focus, and general performance issues is a choice the employee is making - or their lack of trying.
According to data captured from the Mental Health America 2020 online screening tool, mhascreening.org, and the 2020 State of Mental Health in America report, one in five people nationwide (47.1 million) are living with a mental health condition. And most of those people are employed. However, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, only 36.9% of those suffering actually get help! And, stigma around mental health at work stops 8 out of 10 people from reaching out for support, which directly impacts a company’s bottom line. US businesses lose billions of dollars yearly as a result of untreated mental illness.
Thankfully, leaders can start to change the conversation. Below are just a few things leaders can do to destigmatize mental health at work so employees feel empowered to get the help they need.
Lead by example. When you take a break to stretch or go for a walk, make sure to let people know you are taking time for yourself. Share when you take a break from technology or use time off to unwind and recharge. This is truly the best way to show that your employees’ health and well-being is important.
Talk about mental health issues. Talk openly about your own mental health struggles. When you share, you let the employees know it’s ok for them to share as well. It builds trust and improves relationships.
Watch how you speak. Do not use insensitive remarks like “crazy” or “lazy” when talking about mental illness. This will only continue the stigma. Consider “person-centric” phrasing like “a person with a mental health concern.”
Break down barriers to getting treatment. Leaders are not trained to treat mental health issues, but you can create environments that encourage people to get help. Run company-wide campaigns or talk about mental health concerns and resources in newsletters or emails. Let your employees know there are ways they can get the help they need.
Remember, at a time when people are feeling most vulnerable and in need of help, the stigma around mental health prevents them from reaching out. By reducing the stigma and increasing support, employers can lessen the organizational impact of mental health issues.
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